JOANNE~~ Dr Ellner did my surgery last year - I went to San Diego from WA and didn't meet her until the Monday before my surgery on Thurs. She was JUST SUPER during the whole thing- she is very caring and she took as much time with me as I needed. Then, 5 days after my surgery I had to have a second emergency surgery for a twisted bowel (no fault of the RNY) She gave my husband her personal cell phone number and told him to call any time day or night if we had any problems or concerns- she was scheduled to go to Las Vegas for a conference and she even offered to not go if I didn't feel comfortable with her being gone (even though she would only be gone 2 days!) What other DR would offer to not to go out of town if you didn't feel comfortable with it! She is a down to earth, caring person and she is an outstanding surgeon. You are in GREAT hands!